My new sister-in-law is an interior decorator by trade, and at my brother’s recent wedding, it showed. So much thought was put into each and every arrangement. I just had to share some images from the day to showcase her talent. Perhaps you’ll be inspired. (And if you need to hire a decorator in the KC area, let me know and I’ll connect you!) 😉

The beginnings of the centerpieces. So beautiful against the blue Fall sky.
The ribbon and flowers placed around the flower girls’ waists made pretty hair bows later.
The golden place card pinwheels sparkled in the sunshine.
I was happy to find my place at the table.
A memory table for lost loved ones was a beautiful touch.
The finished centerpieces were especially pretty when lit up at night.
String lights and white …

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Retail therapy? More like I need therapy after this retail experience. (image from target-addict.com)

I remember noticing how beautiful the sky was behind the Target sign, and actually thinking to myself, “today will be a successful shopping day.” The automatic doors whooshed open as I entered the store, kid free. I felt good, light on my feet. Being alone will do that to you. I quickly found matching shoes for the girls (for an upcoming wedding), and decided to take a little “me” time to–dare I say–try on a few clothes. I can’t remember the last time I stepped foot in a dressing room. Think…think…think…nope, can’t remember.

As I headed over to hosiery to find some leggings, I passed the clearance bra rack. I backed up. After all, the last one I’d bought had a detachable front. …

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The girls with their uncle and new aunt.

When my brother introduced me to his girlfriend Luisa, it seemed very strange. She seemed so…familiar. Had I met her before? No. She was from California, and they’d met on vacation in Mexico. So why, then, did it feel like I’ve always known her? Why did conversation flow so easily? Why did I feel like I could trust her instantly? I don’t know why, all I know is that it’s wonderful. Soon, they’ll marry. My two girls will toss flowers down the aisle, and I will witness my brother marry one of my dear friends.

Their courtship was brief, but no one questioned how quickly they were engaged. Their relationship is completely natural, loving and comfortable. I’ve never seen my brother more happy. He’s relaxed. Smiles come easily. He’s found …

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Such a pretty dog, and an integral part of our family.

After years of failed attempts, I finally captured a decent photo of our sweet dog Morgan today. Her all-black coat gives little contrast, meaning most photos were a black blob. But today, the lighting was just right. I was experimenting with my new (to me) camera while playing outside with the girls, and I snapped this picture. I was thrilled. After all, we’re not completely certain how long we’ve got left with her.

Last week, we found out that she had a mast cell tumor growing on her left side. (You can see the shaved patch and stitches in the photo.) This week, we found out her cancer is at Stage 2, meaning it has the potential to grow. While this isn’t the best news, …

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My friends Nikki, Tracee and I enjoy the view and beverages at Grace Hill Winery in Whitewater, Kansas.

When my friends and I showed up at Grace Hill Winery in Whitewater, Kansas, I think the staff thought we’d been drinking already. Nope. We were all just giddy to be released from the truck we’d been squished in for an hour. And, we’re just generally goofy people. We were there to celebrate my friend Tracee’s 30th birthday, and I’m so glad I got to be a part of her special day. From the moment we walked in to the tasting room, I was instantly impressed. The staff was warm and friendly, and rolled right along with our group’s crazy antics (which only increased as we got further into the tasting).

I’d never been to a …

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Employers: do you really want drool on that paperwork? No? Then create a nap room. (image from: http://www.telegraph.co.uk)

I can’t remember the last time I got a solid night’s sleep. And by solid, I mean six hours, uninterrupted. Anything more is just extravagance. Even when we’ve shipped the kids off to the grandparent’s for a night, or when we escaped for a weekend (whee), I still woke up. It might take an entire bottle of wine, or some super powerful sleeping pills to knock me out. Still, I know I get more sleep now than when I was working full time. No, SAHMs don’t get to take luxurious naps during the day (unless their kids are in school), but I do get to sleep in a little bit later, and work stress doesn’t keep me up at …

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